you're just imagining it
- November 5, 2024
- npckc
Get on Steam"You're Just Imagining It" is a simulation game that depicts the experience of living with chronic pain and the struggle to get a diagnosis. Players must manage their stressful schedule and endure dismissive doctors, all while trying to maintain some semblance of a normal life. The game features a minimalist soundtrack and can be completed in around 30 minutes. Please note, this game is not meant to be medical advice.
Mac OS
PC
Web Browser
Windows
Linux
Reviews
- The game provides a heartfelt and realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by individuals with chronic illnesses, making players feel seen and understood.
- Its simple art style and music complement the emotional narrative, enhancing the overall experience.
- Many players found the game to be a cathartic experience, offering hope and validation for those who have faced similar challenges in the healthcare system.
- The gameplay is minimal and lacks meaningful choices, leading some to feel it is more of an interactive experience than a traditional game.
- The game can evoke strong emotions and frustration, which may be overwhelming for some players, especially those with similar real-life experiences.
- Despite its short length, some players felt that the repetitive nature of the gameplay could become tedious and did not provide a sense of accomplishment.
- story22 mentions
- 9 % positive mentions
- 77 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The game's story is a poignant and relatable exploration of the struggles faced by chronically ill individuals in navigating the healthcare system, resonating deeply with players who have experienced similar challenges. While it is a short narrative, its emotional weight and personal connection make it a compelling experience, albeit a tragic one that may be uncomfortable for some. Overall, it is praised for its well-executed storytelling and meaningful message, encouraging players to engage with its themes of empathy and resilience.
“Such a well-executed story.”
“This story brought a lot of emotion, seeing how this is the actual reality with the healthcare system.”
“It's a short but very tragic story.”
“The story is very depressing and the interactions with the doctors hit the nail on the head.”
“This is a story based on real-life tribulations, and it can be uncomfortable, but my diagnosis is that it's a story worth telling.”
- graphics13 mentions
- 31 % positive mentions
- 46 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are characterized by a charming and cute art style that resonates well with its themes, creating a cozy atmosphere. While some players appreciate the simplicity and emotional depth conveyed through the visuals, others find the minimalism frustrating. Overall, the art style is praised for its ability to enhance the game's message and appeal.
“I love the art style.”
“The graphics are cute and give the game a lot of style.”
“- The visuals and sound design are simple and unassuming; frankly, even that simplicity began to annoy me by the end of it.”
“The art style is cute, and that is truly what saved my screen from being punched through.”
“The graphics are pretty cozy, but overall the game talks about how hard it is to get a diagnosis when no one believes your problems.”
- emotional9 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game resonates deeply with players, evoking strong feelings of sadness and catharsis, particularly among those with chronic illnesses. Many reviewers noted that the game's portrayal of real-life struggles and the relief experienced by characters mirrored their own experiences, leading to tears and a sense of being understood. Overall, it is described as a heartfelt and impactful experience that effectively captures the complexities of dealing with health challenges.
“I cried at the end, because I could understand the relief of the person in the game.”
“As a person with an unspecified chronic illness, it finally made me feel seen; it perfectly reflects how most doctors react when faced with a person with rare diseases and how tiring managing symptoms can be.”
“I suffer with chronic illness, and this game made me feel just a bit more seen; and it was comforting in that way.”
- gameplay9 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by its simplicity and emotional depth, effectively conveying the struggles of living with chronic illness through a stat management simulator. Players navigate choices between working and resting, reflecting real-life dilemmas, while the game’s brief duration and memorable music enhance the experience. Despite its straightforward mechanics, the game resonates deeply, offering a cathartic exploration of personal pain and the healthcare system.
“A very interesting way of showing the awful nightmare of having a chronic illness and not being taken seriously; I truly felt infuriated during my entire gameplay time. It's so well-made.”
“Simple gameplay with real-life issues - do I push through feeling awful and having pain to go to work and make money for bills and the doctor, or rest?”
“I like the combination of the typical visual novel-style gameplay with managing your stats.”
“Simple gameplay with real life issues - do I push through feeling awful and having pain to go to work and make money for bills and the doctor, or rest?”
“The medication tab mentioned keeping track of how you're feeling but it's not an actual mechanic.”
“A stat management simulator with simple mechanics: you pick between either working or resting for a week, and then between working, resting, playing, or seeing a doctor on the weekend.”
- music3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is described as simple yet lovely, complementing the overall theme effectively. Reviewers highlight a memorable soundtrack that enhances the gameplay experience, with some recommending the purchase of the soundtrack.
“The art style and music are really simple but quite lovely, fitting perfectly for the theme.”
“The gameplay is sufficient with a memorable music track.”
“And buy the soundtrack.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's humor is characterized as sharp and irreverent, often leaning into absurdity for comedic effect. Players appreciate its ability to deliver laughs without taking itself too seriously.
“This game has acid humor at its best, lmao.”
“Please don't take this seriously; it's not criticism, I'm just trying to be funny.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Users find the grinding aspect of the game to be engaging and efficient, effectively illustrating the often tedious journey toward obtaining a diagnosis.
